2nd look

[opencomedo]

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Any advice on what someone should be sure to do on a second look (especially if the program really doesn't have a set format), other than being sure they like the town and letting their s.o. see the place too? thanks

 

[Mariah246]

I have yet to encounter a program that invited me back for a second look.

 

[dermie09]

Had no idea derm programs did this? Invitation only??

 

[opencomedo]

no reason to get to scared, it would be by your own request. I haven't heard of anyone being invited for one (and most places would say assuredly that it would not help your ranking whatsoever).

 

[sensitive skin]

No resident I've spoken with at top, middle, and bottom program has done a 2nd look. At one top program, I spoke to several residents who did not even rotate at that program...they thought 2nd look was not necessary.

 

[opencomedo]

it wound up not working out for me to go visit anyway.... I hope me attempting to set up a "2nd look" didn't seem weird and hurt me in any way.....

 

[DermMatch]

Second look, unfortunately, is pointless as the rank listing is finalized at the end of the last interview day. Because departments rely on heavy consensus to determine their rank lists, one small move post-interview will not change the rank list.

So, sadly, trying to go on second look is pointless. Sending thank you cards is pointless. Emailing and chatting people up after you interview are pointless. In fact, it's embarrassing for you and for your contacts in the department because the faculty knows where you rank but can't reveal it. When I was an applicant, I did not realize this, and of course did all these postinterview moves that were useless.

This is not meant to be harsh, just real.

 

[Dermocrat]

I know I'm still just an applicant, but I can't believe that this applies to every program. Any other residents/faculty have an opinion on this?

 

[Cheebs09]

I too have been interested in 2nd look - not to "help my rank" but rather to figure out how to rank programs that I am very interested in but not as familiar with.

I guess people generally go with a "sure bet" that they're familiar with rather than consider a "top" program that they don't have a chance to get a better look at.

 

[dermathalon]

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[PoisonIvy50]

I did a second look trip to the program where I eventually matched. It was mostly for my SO to see the area and decide if he could live there, however I do think it sent the signal to the program that I was serious about coming. And I definitely didn't get the vibe that I was being obnoxious or pushy by doing a second visit.